2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 310 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | C | 146 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 12.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 61 L |
